SMS (Short Message Service)
A system for sending short (256 bytes or less) text messages between wireless devices.
GSM and narrowband TDMA support message lengths of 160 characters. GSM supports two-way messaging, while TDMA enables messages to be received from the network only. CDMA supports messages of 256 bytes and two-way messaging.
Depending on your point of view, the strength of SMS and its Achilles' heel might both be the same thing. By definition, SMS enables limited-size messages. This is because in digital systems, the SMS messages run in the same control channel as the call setup data. You could view the restriction on message length as a hindrance or a blessing. If you are the wordy sort, you might be frustrated by the length limits. But for the delivery of notifications and alerts, SMS provides a low-cost communications mechanism that can take place at the same time users are talking on their digital cellular phones.
Note, though, that SMS interoperability across different carrier networks in North America has been problematic. SMS messages often cannot be sent from one type of network technology to another or one carrier (say, from a GSM network to a CDMA network). This has not been a problem in Europe, where GSM is used ubiquitously. But in North America and other regions where multiple digital cellular technologies are at play, usage has been stunted.
From The long and short of SMS, Network World, 08/09/01.
Additional resources
SMS Forum
Industry group.
MobileSMS.com
More info, geared toward industry and enterprise users.
What are some SMS applications?
Network World Wireless in the Enterprise Newsletter, 08/01/01.
SMS pushes paging to extinction
Includes a look at the challenges SMS will pose for enterprise network professionals. Network World, 01/07/02.
Wireless/Mobile research center
Latest news, analysis and newsletters from Network World Fusion.
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sms
by vinayak
fine tutorial
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